Andre Carter Says He’s Joining Patriots

Stop me if this sounds familiar: the Patriots are set to add a defensive end.

Around 9pm Andre Carter tweeted “I am proud to announce that I will be playing for the New England Patriots for the 2011 season. Thanks you for your prayers and support.”

The move came the day the Patriots signed DE Shaun Ellis and two days after they signed DE Mark Anderson. Carter is a 2001 first round pick. He was taken seventh overall, one pick after New England selected Richard Seymour.

In ten seasons split between the 49ers and Redskins Carter has notched 66 sacks.

The move is the strongest sign yet New England is moving to the 4-3. He signed with Washington in 2006 after San Francisco switched away from the 4-3. On the defensive switch Carter said “When the 49ers announced they were changing to a 3-4, I’m like, ‘Oh, great, But I did it. I feel that’s a testament to my character. I made some plays , but it took me out of some plays as far as getting to the quarterback.”

Not surprisingly he struggled last year as Washington transitioned to the 3-4. He started only five games and had 2.5 sacks, and was released after the season.